Why Sports Can Help Kids With School

Research suggests that students who participate in sports tend to do better in school. Some say it is linked to the physical activity. That makes sense; even a small amount of activity can increase blood supply to the brain and help you think better. I believe participating in organized sports offers more than just the physical benefits. Here is a list of what I see kids learning from being on a team.

There are rules to follow—team rules and rules of the game.

You have to work hard for a long time to become a winning team.

Working hard makes you tired and sore; but, that is what makes you stronger.

Sometimes you work hard and still don’t win.

You learn the most when you lose.

It is easier to display sportsmanship when winning; the best players take responsibility for a loss, too.

It’s the coach’s job to make decisions for the team.

You need to listen to your coach.

You have to work together as a team.

True leaders think of others before themselves.

The best teams plan for their future by helping the newest players learn the skills of the sport.

Talent is good, but it’s not the only important thing.

Most problems on the team are solved by communicating with each other.

About the author

Livia McCoy spent many years teaching upper school science. She currently serves as Dean of Student Support at The Steward School in Richmond, VA. Livia sees each student as an individual with great potential to learn, and feels her job is to help every student figure out how to be successful in school. Livia says, “I blog about the many smart students who struggle in school because they think differently or have attention issues. I share what I have learned helping these students, their parents and teachers to see how they can experience success in school.” Livia welcomes comments on her blog at SchoolFamily.com.